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Ultrasound imaging, also called ultrasound scanning or sonography, involves exposing part of the body to high-frequency sound waves to produce pictures of the inside of the body. Ultrasound exams do not use ionizing radiation (as used in x-rays). Because ultrasound images are captured in real-time, they can show the structure and movement of the body’s internal organs, as well as blood flowing through blood vessels. Ultrasound imaging is a noninvasive medical test that helps physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions. Vascular ultrasound provides pictures of the body’s veins and arteries. A Doppler ultrasound study may be part of a vascular ultrasound examination.
Doppler ultrasound is a special ultrasound technique that evaluates blood velocity as it flows through a blood vessel, including the body’s major arteries and veins in the abdomen, arms, legs and neck. What are some common uses of the procedure? Sonography is a useful way of evaluating the body’s circulatory system. Vascular ultrasound is performed to:
help monitor the blood flow to organs and tissues throughout the body.
locate and identify blockages (stenosis) and abnormalities like plaque or emboli and help plan for their effective treatment.
detect blood clots (deep venous thrombosis (DVT) in the legs or arms.
determine whether a patient is a good candidate for a procedure such as angioplasty.
evaluate the success of procedures that graft or bypass blood vessels.
determine if there is an enlarged artery (aneurysm).
determine the source and severity of varicose veins.
Doppler ultrasound images can help the physician to see and evaluate:
blockages to blood flow (such as clots).
narrowing of vessels (which may be caused by plaque).
tumors and congenital malformation.